About Paris
Paris is 98 miles northeast of the Dallas – Fort Worth metroplex on the western edge of the Piney Woods. Area attractions include the downtown plaza and the J.J. Culbertson fountain commemorating the rebuilding of the downtown after the 1916 fire, antique stores, quilt shops, the restored train depot that played a significant role in the U.S. cotton and cattle industries, and surrounding towns that will entice you to stop and explore small-town Texas. In addition to being "The Second Largest Paris in the World," Paris was named "Best Small Town in Texas" in 1998 by Kevin Heubusch in his book The New Rating Guide to Life in America's Small Cities.
Some Paris attractions include:
- Farmer's Market - featuring produce and other items from area growers. Located at the corner of West Kaufman and 1st SW
- The Plaza Art Gallery - displays include paintings, drawings, ceramics/pottery, sculpture, photography, stained glass, hand-made jewelry, and one-of-a-kind furniture pieces. Located at 8 West Plaza
- The Lamar County Historical Society - located in Heritage Park in a complex that includes the restored 1912 Union Station and Heritage Hall. The entrance to the museum's central gallery is through the columned facade of Judge Jim Nobel Thompson's home. The Octagonal Room features grand photographs of great Paris houses, and other items of interest. Six exhibition galleries adjoin this room: the military room, general exhibit room, fire room, two period furniture rooms, and the Buckner Children's Home room. The Sheb Williams Rural Life Museum is located at the back of the Historical Museum and features many items highlighting early rural life in the area. Located at 8 West Plaza.
More information available from:
The Paris Visitors and Convention Council
Down Home Paris - a multimedia slideshow by National Geographic photographer Bob Krist (be sure to click start)
Paris in the Movies
Although no scenes were filmed in Paris, the city lent its name to the critically acclaimed 1984 film "Paris, Texas" by Wim Wenders starring Harry Dean Stanton and Nataasja Kinsky. The movie features a beautiful, haunting score by slide guitar legend Ry Cooder. Here's a clip from the opening scene.